UN Secretary-General discuss latest challenges, counter-terror efforts

H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, received Ban Ki-moon, the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, on Friday in Abu Dhabi, and explored ways to strengthen the UAE-UN relations through multilateral partnerships in humanitarian and developmental fields.

H.H. Sheikh Abdullah and the visiting UN chief also exchanged views on current regional and global developments of key importance, including efforts to counter terrorism.

The UAE minister stressed the country’s commitment to building constructive partnerships with international humanitarian and developmental organisations, consistent with the vision of the UAE leadership.

Ban Ki-moon conveyed his thanks and lauded the UAE for supporting the works and activities of the UN and the international community.

Present at the meeting were Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Minister of State for International Cooperation, Dr. Sultan bin Ahmad Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of State, Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Affairs Authority (EAA), and Yacoub Yousef Al Hosani, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for International Organisations Affairs.

As part of his visit to the UAE, the secretary-general has delivered a master class to students, alumni and faculty of the Emirates Diplomatic Academy, the nation’s international relations and diplomacy, academic, training, best-practice and research institution. He shared insights from his career as world’s highest ranking diplomat, and also engaged the students in a discussion over contemporary diplomatic challenges and opportunities, ranging from climate action to women and youth empowerment.

Addressing the intimate audience of EDA students, many of whom have just returned from observing the UN General Assembly in New York and the COP 22 climate change negotiations in Marrakech, Ban Ki-moon commended the UAE leadership’s efforts for an outward facing and collaborative approach on global issues as well as the nation’s important role in the United Nations.

Noting appreciation for UAE’s contributions to global diplomacy, the secretary-general has highlighted UAE’s achievements as a leading regional and global partner in combatting climate change, congratulating the nation as the first country in the region to ratify the Paris Agreement. He further commended the close collaboration between the UAE and the UN resulting in advancements on other issues like sustainable development, human rights, alleviation of poverty and regional security.

The lecture was attended by Bernardino Leon, President of the EDA, and Omar Al Bitar, Vice-President of the EDA.